Construction Accident – Kolkata Warehouse Collapse Death Toll Climbs as Rescue Teams Continue Search
Construction Accident – The death toll from the collapse of an under-construction warehouse in Taratala on the southern outskirts of Kolkata has increased to 16, with rescue teams continuing their search for any remaining victims as emergency operations entered the third day.
Authorities confirmed on Saturday that one of the injured workers receiving treatment at S.S.K.M. Medical College and Hospital died from severe injuries, taking the total number of fatalities to 16. Fourteen injured workers remain admitted to the hospital, while doctors said that two of them are still in critical condition. Rescue personnel continued working through the debris despite the operation nearing its final stage.
Multi-Agency Rescue Effort Continues
Rescue work has involved several agencies working together to remove heavy concrete and steel debris safely. Teams from the Indian Army, the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), the State Disaster Response Force (SDRF), and the Indian Railways have coordinated efforts at the accident site.
Officials deployed advanced plasma-cutting and oxy-cutting equipment to remove twisted iron beams trapped within the collapsed structure. Sniffer dogs have also been assisting search teams, while infrared victim locator cameras are being used to detect signs of anyone who may still be trapped beneath the rubble.
Investigation Points to Construction Deficiencies
A preliminary investigation conducted by the Special Investigation Team (SIT) of Kolkata Police has identified possible reasons behind the collapse. According to early findings, investigators believe the accident may have resulted from a combination of poor-quality construction materials and an improper roof casting method during construction.
Officials said the inquiry is still underway, and technical experts are examining the structural remains to determine the precise sequence of events that caused the warehouse roof to give way.
Missing Worker Records Create Challenge
Investigators are also facing difficulties in determining exactly how many workers were present at the construction site when the structure collapsed. Kolkata Police stated that those managing the warehouse had not maintained any attendance register or worker records.
Because no official list of labourers was available, authorities have been unable to establish the exact number of people who may have been working inside the building at the time of the incident. This has complicated rescue planning and delayed efforts to verify whether anyone could still be trapped under the debris.
Political Complaint Filed After Incident
The accident has also triggered political developments. The Bharatiya Janata Party’s Mazdoor Cell has filed a police complaint at Taratala Police Station against former Kolkata Municipal Corporation Mayor and former Municipal Affairs and Urban Development Minister Firhad Hakim, along with Trinamool Congress councillors Anwar Khan and Shams Iqbal.
Police have acknowledged receiving the complaint. However, no conclusions have been announced regarding responsibility, and the ongoing investigation is expected to determine whether any negligence or violations contributed to the tragedy.
Focus on Accountability and Worker Safety
The Taratala warehouse collapse has once again highlighted concerns surrounding safety standards at construction sites and the importance of maintaining proper labour records. As rescue efforts continue, investigators are expected to examine construction practices, site supervision, and regulatory compliance before submitting their final report.
Authorities have assured that every aspect of the incident will be investigated thoroughly, while medical teams continue treating the injured workers and rescue personnel complete the final stages of the operation.